From climbing frames and jungle gyms to teeter-tots, swings, and slides, playgrounds open a world of physical activity where children let their imaginations run wild. However, while they’re having a blast pretending to be superheroes saving the planet or astronauts rocketing through the galaxy, parents need to keep a close eye on them. Remember each year over 200,000 children are treated in the hospital following a playground accident. In this blog post, we’ll educate parents and caregivers about these injuries and show them how to provide timely care to their little adventurers.

Scrapes, Cuts, and Abrasions

Kids are kids; they run, jump, spin around, and bump into things or each other. So tumbles, collisions, scrapes, cuts, and abrasions are practically inevitable. To treat them, gently clean the wound with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a sterile bandage to prevent infection. If you bring a small first-aid kit with you, taking care of this at the park is simple, so your youngster can keep on playing (just be sure to thoroughly clean it once you get home). For a softer surface that can reduce these common injuries, consider Poured-in-Place rubber flooring. This type of playground surface comes in many colorful designs, is easy to clean, and is durable year-round

Bruises and Contusions

Bruises and contusions are common injuries that result if blood vessels underneath the skin rupture due to a hit or fall. While they’re painful and discolor the affected area, these are generally minor and often heal on their own. Applying ice intermittently can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. However, if the bruise is accompanied by severe pain or doesn’t improve over time, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention.

Strains and Overuse Injuries

While kids are busy playing, they might unknowingly strain muscles or accidentally stretch a tendon beyond its limits causing an overuse injury. Symptoms of this include pain, stiffness, and a limited range of movement. Parents and caregivers should encourage the child to:

• Rest
• Ice the injured area
• Compress the affected area with an elastic bandage
• Elevate it higher than heart level

This commonly used method of relieving discomfort is often referred to by the acronym “R.I.C.E.” However, if the pain doesn’t subside, if they can’t move the affected area at all, or if it’s numb, you’ll want to consult a medical professional. 

Sprains and Fractures

Sometimes, a fall from a piece of equipment or an awkward landing can be more serious than a minor accident. Resulting fractures occur when bones break, while sprains involve stretched or torn ligaments. Symptoms for both include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving. Treatment requires immediate medical attention. Stabilize the injured area, apply ice to reduce swelling, and promptly seek professional help.

Prevent Accidents

While it’s important to know how to apply first-aid and treat a child’s wounds, preventing these mishaps is key. We’re committed to reducing accidents by ensuring playground safety with our high-quality products and services. Thanks to meticulously designed equipment that incorporates safety features and impact-absorbing surfaces, parents can be confident letting their children have fun on a Metro Recreation playground.

Be Vigilant and Ready

Knowing how to treat playground injuries is essential for any parent or caregiver. While it’s impossible to prevent every scraped elbow or bruised shin, being informed and prepared empowers them to provide the best care for their little explorers. 

Remember, Metro Recreation prioritizes safety, ensuring kids can embrace their playful spirit while staying safe. Take the first step toward creating a secure and enjoyable playground experience for all by contacting us.